Our beloved parish of Notre Dame of Mt. Carmel turned 100 years old this year! While July 5, 1925, was the official date of our church dedication, July 5, 2025, marked just the beginning of a year-long centennial celebration filled with FAITH, fellowship, gratitude, MISSION, and HOPE!
In late 2024, the Centennial Committee agreed to a special project to commemorate our 100th birthday. Our desire was one that would bring glory to the Lord while honoring our Blessed Mother. The project focused on enhancing the beauty of our St. Benedict Chapel.
After partnering with a team from New Holland Church Furniture, the collaborative process began. Deacon Joe and I, along with our wives and a small group of parishioners, discussed several ideas as a basis for our designs. Next, we worked with their team until we had final renderings for our pieces. After we chose the wood species, brass applications, and fabrics, the manufacturing began of our new altar, baptismal font, lectern, presider chair, and kneeler. In addition, the group agreed on a portrait of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, and Fr. Peter Gray was commissioned to complete it.